Answer to Question #43718 in Organic Chemistry for anissa

Question

Hello,

I want to know if beta-hydroxyketone is harmfull for health and the environment, if yes how dangerous is it ?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Beta-hydroxyketones may be fatal, partly because of the toxicity of the ketone bodies themselves and partly because the accumulation of beta-hydroxy butyric acid (which is formed by oxidation in the living beings body) reduces the pH of the blood. If the pH is reduced from its normal value of 7.4 to a value of 7.2 or lower acidosis is said to occur. This condition may result in a coma, which, if untreated, may be fatal.